Poll - Fuel cap replacement under new Pa auto emissions

[JoeP]

Based on the experience of this family and relatives, I would approximate that 60 to 70% of the vehicles inspected so far (under the new emissions test) had to have their gas caps replaced.  Model years where from 1997 through 2000.  Moreover, the price of the replacement caps ranged from $16 to $26, yet the same gas cap (and brand) could be purchased for under $8 (non locking) to $12 (locking type) at Advance Auto Part in the Summit.

I'm curious if anyone else has the same experience and if the same percentages show, perhaps we should alert our legislators that something doesn't seem quite right.

Thanks.

[SteveK]

First of all, I want to thank those that have put the time and effort into this website for it is about time that someone kicks open the door to the den of vipers called Newton Township Munincipal Building.  Keep the pressure on!!

 Now as far as the gas cap issue.  All this emmission test did was to rip of the public once more.  They say they are checking for gas vapor leaks from your car's gas cap.  Whatever rocket scientist came up with this whole idea missed the most important step, and that is on not one gas pump that I have seen is there a Vapor Trap over the nozzle.  You will get far more vapors leaking out from the pump than you will ever get from your gas cap.  Once more the big oil companies win out and the little guy takes a beating.
 Also, the price that the service stations doing the test are charging for the replacement caps if you should need one is a little out of line.  Before I took my in I went to AA Auto and bought one, but did not put it on, but left it on the front seat where they can see it.  Guess what, I passed..with a '96 with 90k on it!

 Keep in mind also that this Visual Inspection" is just phase 1 of the program.  Starting next year they are going to do actual exhaust pipe tests.  Hey, I'm all for clean air, but let's start doing something about the trucks out there also!

[Sal]

Hello SteveK and welcome to the community forum.

I think the information that you and Joe put on here will be helpful to people so that they are not overcharged for a cap.  I would like to add that they do not have to purchase a cap before inspection.  If their cap should fail, they can purchase one form a parts store and the gas station would be required to issue the inspection without additional charge.

[susie]

Hi SteveK and welcome!!!   You are right about the pumps and the trucks!!!   Big businesses win again!!!  (Of course, all for the benefit of providing jobs to the people.       If they had to pay more for expenses, they couldn't keep the same amount of personnel working)  The other day I was driving home on Keyser Ave from work with a truck right in front of me and everytime he put on the gas the black emissions coming from his stack was unbelievable.  I actually found my self holding my breath in my car as I went through 'the cloud'.      I finally backed off to about a block behind him to let it dissipate a little before I went through it.

[srteric]

I have noted the lack of controls on a number of gas station nozzles, it's not a bad idea to mention your concern. Be prepared for some indifference or outright hostility, though.

The point about commercial interests being favored is spot on. No surprise there. Let's just not fall into the trap of using resentment of the inequality to justify inaction as individuals.

There is certainly fraudulent activity as a small percentage of businesses are dishonest (or have some dishonest employees - a difference). If you feel you are ripped off you should report it to the manager and to the state. Make it an issue. You may not get immediate satisfaction but if enough individuals do the same it WILL get fixed eventually.

And if clean air and is important to you, remember especially when you choose your government. You need only compare Newton with any number of urban/ industrial areas to see the value of a clean environment.